This set was created primarily from 1″ Styrofoam. They started with full 4′ x 8′ sheets of Styrofoam purchased from Menards and simply hot-glued the sheets end to end (16′ wide by 4′ high). Then they sculpted the Crucifixion side with a hot knife by allowing the hot knife to create a rock-look. They painted the grout part of the rock-look and then painted each individual rock face in different paints they had left over. The three crosses were also made from Styrofoam and they up-lit them to make them stand out. They re-purposed some trees with up-lighting to create a barren look.

The Tomb side was started the same way creating a 16′ x 4′ long piece. They cut out the tomb opening and sculpted the rock-look in the same way as the previous side. They hot-glued multiple pieces of Styrofoam together and cut the rock that covered the Tomb entrance. They wanted it very thick to create a very heavy appearance. Then they boxed in the interior part of the Tomb, added a few lights for visibility, and painted it in the same way as the Crucifixion side.

Most of the supplies needed for this set were re-purposed from previous sets, but new, it wouldn’t have cost more than $200.

Safety Warning

Please look into the safety of these stage designs for yourself. Fire and rigging safety is very important, and different states/countries have different fire codes. Refer to this safety article and always ensure you use fire-retardant materials or treatments.